Deep-Seated Fishing Turmoil in Turkey
In the bustling city of Istanbul, centuries-old fishing traditions are facing extinction threats due to a myriad of factors, including overfishing, habitat loss, climate change, and anthropogenic impacts.
The Plight of Traditional Fishers
The best-case financial scenario for traditional fishers in Istanbul today is earning just about the net minimum wage for single people. Some, however, make just barely 1,500 TL a month. This stark reality is evident in the life of Osman, Sebnem's father, who started fishing at a young age and now regrets his decision due to financial struggles. He has a family of four, and his wife doesn't work.
The middlemen system, a significant player in the industry, is a political issue due to the economic power and influence of commercial fishers and middlemen. According to unionist Mufit Cikrikcioglu, this system is a hurdle for traditional fishers, as middlemen take 15 to 25 percent commission from small-scale fishers for distributing their fish in the market. The remaining 90 percent of the fish sold daily in the market is controlled by middlemen.
The Impact on the Industry
The fishing industry in Turkey employs 250,000 people, which is less than 0.5% of the population. There are around 30,000 traditional fishers. COVID-19 measures have not improved the working conditions for traditional fishers, with less than 10 percent still operating, while large-scale operations have a higher range of vessels still operating.
There are 52 cooperatives with a total of 17,000 fishermen members, but only six cooperatives have a selling spot in wholesale fish markets. This disparity in access to markets further exacerbates the financial struggles of traditional fishers.
The Way Forward
Several potential solutions have been proposed to address these issues. These measures require coordinated action at local, national, and international levels to ensure the survival of both Turkey's unique fish species and its rich fishing heritage.
Sustainable fisheries management, habitat protection, climate adaptation strategies, community engagement, policy and funding, and education and awareness are all crucial components in preserving traditional fishing practices.
Despite the challenges, the resilience of traditional fishers in Istanbul is evident. Some, despite financial struggles, are employed in traditional boats they had sold over the years. However, the need for systemic change is apparent, and the future of traditional fishing in Istanbul hangs in the balance.
Sources:
[1] Simsek Gucyener, C. (2019). The political economy of the fishing sector in Turkey: A case study of the Bosphorus. Journal of Cleaner Production, 225, 1079-1088.
[2] Karakulak, S. (2018). The crisis of small-scale fishing in Turkey: A case study of the Black Sea region. Marine Policy, 94, 151-159.
[3] Kartal, E. (Interview, 2021). Personal communication.
[4] Bal, O. (Interview, 2021). Personal communication.
[5] Bal, S. (Interview, 2021). Personal communication.
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